While traveling, it’s nice to have a buddy to share the experience with you, but there are times where you may find yourself a solo adventurer. The best places to go solo are generally those that are already quiet and are about the experience of the attraction, rather than sharing it with someone. The Vancouver Art Gallery is an ideal place to start on your solo adventure. The exhibitions change every so often, so there’s always something new to see if you have been there on a previous trip. Galleries tend to be quiet at the best of times so that you can focus, mentally explore and take in someone’s artistic talent.

Museums also fall under this umbrella and there are a few scattered around Vancouver. The Museum of Anthropology and the Police Museum are two favorites. The Police Museum may be for those who have inquiring minds about Vancouver’s police and crime history. Take a tour of the morgue and be fascinated by the weapons on display. It’s definitely unlike any other museum you may have been to before.

Photo Credit: Iamataman (Flickr)

The Vancouver Aquarium is a serene spot in Stanley Park and is another great place to spend an afternoon (or morning) by yourself. The dark atmosphere is about as soothing as watching the colorful fish swim around in their well kept tanks.

At some point, you’re bound to get a bit peckish and Meat & Bread is a solo dining friendly spot, and you may even make a few friends there. The communal style dining table pairs you and other random diners together, while you gobble down one of their juicy sandwiches.

Photo Credit: Ruocaled (Flickr)

For some, exercising in groups gets their ticker going, but for others it’s all about concentration and putting in time for yourself. A run around the Seawall will kill two birds with one stone and will treat you to a good workout and some scenic views. If you’re really up for a challenge, Grouse Grind is another option. The narrow staircase makes it suitable for single file hikers, with just enough room to take over the person in front of you. So, even if you had a friend to go with, you wouldn’t be hiking side by side.

Photo Credit: keepitsurreal (Flickr)

When the night falls, you don’t have to go and sit in a hotel room by yourself. Instead, pull up a seat at a bar in one of Vancouver’s fabulous restaurants and order from the same menu as the dining room. Most restaurants around the city offer the same menu at the bar, as they do for table service. It’s also a great way to meet some other locals, or visitors like yourself. Sitting at the bar can often open up the line of communication, so don’t be shy and say hello to your fellow bar flies.